The annual CIAA Tournament is taking place in Charlotte for the eighth consecutive year, with events scheduled from February 25 to March 3, 2013. While there will be five days of college basketball games going on between the men's and women's teams of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) at Time Warner Cable Arena, the many surrounding events and parties create just as much excitement and draw tens of thousands of visitors.

Below is a list of events scheduled for Monday, February 25, through Wednesday, February 27. Please use the website listed for each event to verify information. Advance tickets can be purchased at many of the websites as well.

Taking your Business to the Next Level: A Conversation with Daymond John
Come make valuable business connections, and hear from speaker Daymond John, best known as the founder and CEO of FUBU, and from his appearances on the ABC reality television series Shark Tank. Moderated by Rahman Khan. Presented by Time Warner Cable Black Business Employee Network and Time Warner Cable Business Class. 2:30 p.m. Free; must RSVP, limited seating. Byron's South End, 101 W. Worthington Ave., suite 180, conversationwithdaymond.eventbrite.com.

# CIAA Bowling Party Mixer
The competition goes from the basketball court to the bowling lanes for a night of friendly fun and partying. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Visit website for prices. AMF Bowling University Lanes, 5900 N. Tryon St., ciaatournament.org.

Suits and Ashes: A Gentleman's Experience
This VIP experience is designed for men of style and class who want to relax and relate in the company of fellow cigar enthusiasts in private luxury. VIP ticket includes an open scotch bar, two premium cigars, appetizers, and entertainment. 10 p.m.-midnight. $100. Lashes And MustAshes Upscale Portable Cigar Lounge, 555 S. McDowell St. (Blake Hotel parking lot), lashesandmustashes.com.

Hip Hop Caucus-Charlotte Meet and Greet
Mix and mingle with members of the Hip Hop Caucus, a nonprofit organization that utilizes the power of hip hop to organize young people to be active in elections, policymaking, and service projects. HHC has leadership committees in cities around the country, and has celebrity spokespeople. Find out how you can get involved in upcoming initiatives. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served along with a cash bar. 6-9 p.m. Free admission; RSVP requested. Heist Brewery, 2909 N. Davidson St., Suite 200, hiphopcaucusfeb27.eventbrite.com.